4 Key Steps to Share Your Brand’s Philanthropic Story 90% of Americans say that they are more likely to trust and feel loyal to companies that back social causes.* Making your Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) story readily accessible online is essential to engage consumers, attract more eyeballs, and enhance your overall brand image. 90% STEP 1: Create a home base Your web page is the home base, a tool that allows you to build awareness and support your overall brand message. List your focus, giving program(s), and how your audience can get involved. Think of your dedicated CSR web page as the face of your giving program, consumers should be able to reference and navigate it easily. STEP 2: Paint a picture With our smartphones always in hand it is easy to gather pictures and videos on the spot. Use these to give followers a behind the scenes look into your giving programs! Making it as easy as possible for people to share your content, allows for maximum visibility (more eyeballs!) on your posts. Repurposing your content for posting on a variety of platforms such as Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter is also key to spreading your message. of Americans want to hear about CSR efforts* 88% STEP 3: Give voice to your employees Help employees share on their personal social media accounts and offer incentives for spreading the word. Chances are employees already have a large network on their social media accounts interested in learning more. Employees take pride in their company’s efforts to make an impact on society, and consumers can relate to stories about employees getting involved and not just dollars spent. A study by Deloitte showed that 96% of employees who volunteer report that the corporate culture at where they work is somewhat positive or very positive. You can use the pictures, quotes and videos you collected to supplement your articles as well! STEP 4: Write it down Blogging is the bread and butter of digital storytelling. People connect with brands when they feel like they are part of a story. Keep your audience posted with blog posts throughout your CSR program. The truth is you do not have to be an amazing writer to get started with blogging. If you can share something that will resonate with consumers emotionally then they are more likely to discuss or share that content. Jump in and learn as you go! See what your audience is sharing and commenting on as well as where they are finding your content. You might find certain channels to be more effective in reaching your audience than others, or you may find a whole new market/audience by trying a previously untapped medium. 877-712-9495 • www.versaic.com THE COMPANY WE KEEP Do Good Better. *Based on a study by CONE COMMUNICATIONS/ECHO GLOBAL CSR